Anthrax, Tetanus, Staphylococcus, and Cholera: Identification, Transmission, and Prevention
Bacillus anthracis (Anthrax)
Identification: The first infectious disease, Anthrax, is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a gram-positive, aerobic bacterium that forms endospores and is encapsulated. It can be found in ordinary cultivars.
Transmission: Transmission of Anthrax typically occurs through contact with animals, inhalation, or ingestion of contaminated, uncooked meat.
Manifestations: Initially, cutaneous anthrax presents as a superficial, itchy lesion at the site of entry. This lesion becomes papular, then vesicular, and finally develops into a depressed, black eschar. The eschar is usually accompanied by moderate to severe edema, sometimes with small secondary vesicles. Respiratory symptoms include respiratory failure. Gastrointestinal involvement can cause diarrhea and ascites.
Treatment: Penicillin and other antibiotics are used for treatment.
Prevention: The best preventive measures include protecting exposed skin and mucous membranes, and vaccination. The use of gloves and other protective gear is important, as is health education. A vaccine is available for individuals in contact with animals.
Clostridium tetani (Tetanus)
Identification: Clostridium tetani is an anaerobic, gram-positive, sporulating bacterium. It inhabits the gastrointestinal tract and the female genital tract. It is often transmitted through spores.
Transmission: Direct or indirect contact with contaminated soil is the primary mode of transmission. Entry occurs through wounds contaminated with soil or feces, as well as burns, cuts, and ulcers. It is more frequent in underdeveloped countries.
Manifestations: Tetanus is not invasive; the organism needs a host tissue to thrive. The toxin can reach the central nervous system, affecting motor neuron synapses.
Treatment: Treatment focuses on maintaining vital functions and using penicillin or other antibiotics.
Prevention: Prevention is achieved through anti-tetanus vaccination (active immunization) and tetanus immunoglobulin (passive immunization). The vaccine should be administered at 2, 4, 6, 18 months, and 14 years. If not previously vaccinated, a doctor should determine the necessary doses.
Staphylococcus aureus
Identification: Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive, spherical, non-motile, aerobic, and facultative anaerobic bacterium.
Transmission: It lives on the skin and mucous membranes of humans and animals, spreading through direct contact or exposure to contaminated objects. It enters the body through skin lesions or surgical sites, causing infections and possible metastasis. The infection can be aggravated by foreign bodies, previous surgeries, and the use of antibiotics that inhibit microbial flora.
Treatment: Treatment involves penicillin, vancomycin, or teicoplanin.
Prevention: Handwashing is crucial for healthcare workers to prevent the spread of infection.
Vibrio cholerae (Cholera)
Identification: Vibrio cholerae is a gram-negative, facultative anaerobic bacterium. It is mainly found in food or water. It proliferates between 5°C and 43°C, with an optimum temperature of 37°C. It is sensitive to acidic pH.
Transmission: Cholera causes major pandemics, especially in underdeveloped countries, spreading through contaminated drinking water, water used for cooking, and water used for hygiene. Person-to-person transmission is rare.
Manifestations: Cholera typically causes sudden, abundant diarrhea, leading to dehydration, thirst, cramps, vomiting, and nausea.
Treatment: Treatment includes hydration, antibiotics (tetracycline, erythromycin, cephalosporins), and improved hygiene.
Prevention: Prevention involves handwashing, food and environmental hygiene, proper sewage management, and vaccination for those visiting endemic countries.